For the first time since drafting Slovakian defensemen Branislav Mezei with the 10th overall pick in the 1999 NHL Draft, the New York Islanders have decided to address a glaring need on its blue line with its latest top-10 overall pick.

On Friday evening in Pittsburgh, the Islanders selected Edmonton (WHL) defenseman Griffin Reinhart with the fourth overall pick in the 2012 NHL Entry Draft. The 6-foot-4, 207-pound Reinhart led all Oil Kings defensemen in goals with 12. In 58 regular season games, Reinhart registered 36 points – 12 goals and 24 assists – as he helped the Oil Kings capture the Ed Chynoweth Cup, awarded to the playoff champion of the Western Hockey League.

Reinhart, who turned 18 back on January 24, added eight points – two goals and six assists – in the Oil Kings’ 20 postseason games.

The West Vancouver-native also has a hockey pedigree. Father Paul Reinhart, a defenseman, played 12 seasons (1979-90) with the Vancouver Canucks and both the Atlanta and Calgary Flames. Brothers Max – a third round pick by Calgary back in 2010 – and Sam – an expected top-five selection in the 2014 NHL Draft – both played this past season for Kootenay in the Western Hockey League. Both Max and Sam are forwards.

Reinhart, who models his game after Norris Trophy finalist Shea Weber of the Nashville Predators, possesses a high hockey IQ based on his bloodlines. He is a very good skater, and has tremendous agility for his size. Many scouts believe that when fully developed, Reinhart has a chance to have a major impact on the NHL level.